Introduction

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia. Estimates suggest the prevalence of AF is increasing, with 1 in 4 people >40 years old developing AF in their lifetime. AF can be caused by a number of medical conditions and as such requires thorough assessment and investigation. This tutorial hopes to cover important content including diagnosis, assessment, management to control symptoms and prevent complications.

• It requires 30 minute preparation.

• It can be taught in 1 - 1.5 hours

Teaching approach

As with all modules, familiarise yourself with the NPMT principles.

session learning objectives:

• Define atrial fibrillation

• Identify the ECG features of atrial fibrillation 

• List the causes of atrial fibrillation

• Describe basic initial assessment and investigation priorities in atrial fibrillation 

• Describe the complications of untreated atrial fibrillation

• Be aware of tools used to assess a patient’s clotting and bleeding risk

• Discuss the management options for atrial fibrillation

  
  

Tips & Tricks on running an effective session:

• Have students practice interpreting ECGs to become familiar with the key characteristics (LITFL has an excellent library of ECGs to source from) 

• Emphasise that AF can be caused by reversible underlying illnesses (e.g. acute ischaemia, electrolyte abnormalities or sepsis) and as such these should always be part of your assessment 

• Refer students to MDCalc to review the CHAD-VASc and HAS-BLED scores for risk stratification

  Download Resources:

• Curriculum pack